One-step CVD synthesis of a boron nitride nanotube-iron composite

A composite of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) and iron (Fe) has been synthesized using a novel one-step process and characterized by optical, electron microscope, and mechanical measurement techniques. The BNNT-Fe composite, the first of this type produced to the best of our knowledge, is shown to have up to 24% higher specific yield strengths from stress-strain measurements and Rockwell Hardness C Scale (HRC), depth of penetration into sample of 120 degrees diamond cone, 50% higher relative to a control sample of pure Fe. Scanning and transmission electron microscope imaging shows that the composite is comprised of a uniform nanoscale mixture of BNNTs bridging the metal particles.